Indian Head Massage

Summary

More Detail

Typical Conditions

Questions

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Indian Head massage, or Champissage (Champi is an original Indian word meaning head massage) is based on the ancient Ayurvedic healing system. It has been practised in India for over 4 thousand years, originally by women to keep their hair thick, healthy and in beautiful condition. They would have realised how enjoyable the treatment was and experienced a feeling of wellbeing and overall general health, which will have kept the practice alive until today.

The treatment is carried out with the client fully clothed and whilst oil may be used it is not necessary. Typically the therapist works from behind the client and performs a flowing sequence of movements working over the back, neck, shoulders, arms, scalp and face, helping to relieve tension, stiffness, headaches and eyestrain improving circulation and promoting a feeling of well-being.

Indian Head Massage is a relaxing and stimulating treatment for the shoulders, upper arms, neck, scalp and face. Based on the ancient Ayurvedic holistic healing system, it has been practised in India for over a thousand years where it remains an important part of modern life.

Our modern lives are stressful with little time to look after ourselves properly. Indian Head Massage is especially effective in relieving many of the physical, mental and emotional symptoms of stress. It works deeply to ease the physical tension in the shoulders and neck that is often caused by stress. Head massage also eases headaches and migraines, improves clarity of thought, increases vitality, and lifts and calms emotionally.

By stimulating the blood flow to the scalp, head massage encourages the distribution of nutrients and oxygen to the whole body as well as improving the condition of the hair and promoting hair growth. It also benefits lymphatic drainage thus encouraging the removal of toxins from the body.

The Massage

Indian Head Massage is carried out fully clothed sitting on a chair. It is suitable for all ages and is safe to receive during pregnancy.

A typical treatment combines massage techniques with gentle stretches in order to loosen and mobilise the muscles and joints of the arms, shoulders and neck. The scalp and face are then gently but deeply massaged. Oils can optionally be used to improve the condition of the hair.

A treatment lasts for forty minutes and includes a medical history, the actual treatment, and recommendations for diet and lifestyle. All aspects of your treatment are strictly confidential.

Research

Although there is little research into Indian Head Massage, there is evidence to support that myofascial trigger point massage to the head, neck and shoulders has been effective in treating conditions such as muscle tension & emotional state of patients. Results also show a significant decrease in heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Analysis of heart rate variability revealed a significant increase in parasympathetic activity. (Delaney, J etal 2002) Therefore as IHM is similar in comparison to this treatment, it is likely that the results of the treatment could prove to be equally as effective.

Indian Head Massage is a holistic treatment that can be effective with many common health complaints:

Muscular tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulders

Headaches, migraines and eyestrain

Sinusitis

Insomnia and disturbed sleep

Fatigue

Anxiety and depression

High blood pressure

Dry skin and hair

Indian Head Massage can work effectively and harmlessly with existing medical treatment and promotes:

A feeling of balance and calm

Greater clarity

Sounder sleep

Relief from emotional stress

Is Indian Head Massage Safe?

Indian Head Massage is a very safe treatment when provided by a fully qualified therapist. A full consultation will be taken before the treatment to ensure there are no contraindications to the treatment.

Can both men and woman have an Indian Head Massage?

Yes. Indian Head Massage is designed for both men and women.

Will I be kept modest at all times during my treatment?

Yes. The treatment can be provided with or without oils, therefore the client can have the treatment with or without their top on. Areas include the back, shoulders, upper arms, neck, head and face. If the client chooses to use oil/cream then the therapist will provide a towel to be placed around their front and will leave the room whilst the client prepares themselves for the treatment.

Can I have an Indian Head Massage whilst I am pregnant?

Yes. We treat clients after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Some techniques will be avoided. There is acutally no known risk, so this is as a precaution only.

How soon will I feel the effects?

Immediately after an Indian Head Massage you are likely to feel very relaxed, so please be aware that you may need to get some fresh air before driving.

After care advice

Drink plenty of water or herbal tea.

Why?

Being well hydrated helps with the removal of toxins from the body. Coffee, tea and cola should be avoided immediately after the treatment.

Why?

These contain caffeine which is a stimulant and diuretic, so it will not help you to relax or help you keep optimum levels of hydration.

Do not smoke or drink alcohol for around 24 hours after treatment.

Why?

As the treatment is detoxifying, drinking and smoking will reintroduce toxins to the body. Heavy meals should also be avoided immediately after the treatment.

Why?

Blood is diverted to the gut to help digestion and this will divert energy away from the healing process, light meals are ideal.

Further treatments may be recommended

Why?

Further or even regular treatments for certain clients with particular conditions can be helpful.

Important Notice

The information contained herein are a matter of opinion & should be used for guidance only. It is not intended for the purposes of self diagnosis or treatment, which could be dangerous. If you feel you have a problem, then we advise that you seek professional help from an appropriately qualified health care professional i.e. doctor, osteopath, chiropractor or other.

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Proprietor - Andrew Woodhouse BSc (Hons) Ost and the respective authors of the articles concerned.
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